What is in the PDF

  • Maze, 11 by 14 squares
  • Solution with the path marked

How to use this printable

Print the maze on US Letter or A4 paper at actual size. Give your child a pencil or crayon and show them the start picture of a penguin and the end picture of an igloo. Explain that they need to draw a path from the penguin to the igloo without crossing any walls. Let them trace the route with their finger first to plan, then draw it. The maze has 11 by 14 squares, so it takes focus. After they finish, check the solution page to see the correct path. This activity builds planning skills as children think ahead about turns and dead ends. It also improves pencil control because they must stay inside the narrow paths. Use the maze once or place it in a plastic sleeve to reuse with a dry erase marker. The child learns to solve problems step by step and gains confidence from completing the maze.

Teaching tips

  • Let your child trace the path with a finger before drawing to reduce frustration and build planning skills.
  • Make it harder by timing the maze or asking your child to find a different route than the solution.
  • Place the page in a plastic sleeve and use dry erase markers so the maze can be reused many times.

Questions and answers

Is this maze too hard for a 5 year old?

The maze has 11 by 14 squares, which is a good challenge for ages 5 to 8. A 5 year old may need help tracing with a finger first, but most can complete it with practice.

How should I print the PDF so it fits correctly?

Print at 100 percent or actual size in your printer settings. The PDF includes both US Letter and A4 sizes, so either paper size works without scaling.

Can my child use markers or crayons on the maze?

Yes, crayons and markers work well. For reuse, put the page in a plastic sleeve and use dry erase markers.